A crackdown on anti-social behaviour across Lancashire has seen 2694 arrests in a year and a 5 per cent cut in incidents, say police.
Lancashire Constabulary said they have also issued 452 civil actions and seized 601 nuisance vehicles due to anti-social behaviour (ASB) since the launch of Op Centurion in July 2023.
Op Centurion is Lancashire police's county-wide response to anti-social behaviour.
“Anti-social behaviour has the potential to cause a significant amount of harm and distress to people and it is unacceptable," said Karen Edwards,. assistant chief constable of Lancashire.
“We have been working incredibly hard to tackle these issues head on and our efforts are paying off with ASB down by 5 per cent across the county and 13 per cent within our hotspot areas which have benefitted from additional resources funded by the Home Office.
“We will continue to dedicate our efforts to tackle the ASB that affects our local communities as well as tackling the ASB on our roads."
Clive Grunshaw, who was re-elected Police and Crime Commissioner in May replacing the previous commissioner Andrew Snowden, said: "It's great to see the positive impact Op Centurion is having and I am keen to build on this, both in ASB hotspots and beyond.
"Offenders must know crime and ASB, even at low level, will be punished and I'm committed to supporting Lancashire Constabulary to take firm action.
"The fact that Op Centurion is now tackling ASB driving is really good news for Lancashire. I know that this is a real concern for residents and targeting those who use our roads in an anti-social and dangerous manner is an important step to make Lancashire safer."
ASB driving can include:
- Street racing: This involves illegal racing of any type of vehicle on public roads. This reckless and extremely dangerous behaviour puts other road users and pedestrians at risk of serious harm.
- Street cruising: In street cruising, vehicle owners form convoys and drive up and down streets or neighbourhoods, often to showcase their cars or bikes. They drive slowly, sometimes occupying both sides of the road, causing traffic delays and inconvenience for others.
- Riding unlicensed powered vehicles: Riding scrambler bikes, unlicensed quad bikes and similar vehicles on public roads is against the law.
- Misusing vehicles off-road: Vehicles such as quad bikes are designed for off-road use. Riding them in public parks or publicly owned land without permission from local authorities is illegal. These vehicles should also be restricted to private roads or land with proper authorisation.
- Performing stunts and tricks: Performing stunts like doughnuts and wheelies, whether on public roads or in car parks, poses risks to drivers, riders and bystanders. It can also create noise disturbances, especially if done in residential areas at night.
As part of Op Centurion, officers on patrol in Morecambe town centre on Sunday seized an e scooter due to it being ridden illegally.
Police said that as part of the targeted operation, each district of Lancashire is currently benefitting from additional foot patrols to target areas identified as anti-social behaviour (ASB) hotspots.
These areas alone have seen more than 27,000 additional foot patrol hours delivered with officers tackling and deterring further incidents as well as engaging with residents and businesses.
You can find more information on ASB and how to report it HERE. Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. You can also call 101 or 999 in an emergency.
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